German scientists discovered naturally occurring microbes that removed 95% of dissolved uranium from contaminated water

German scientists discovered naturally occurring microbes in the flooded Königstein uranium mine that remove dissolved uranium from water.

In laboratory experiments, the microbes removed approximately 95% of dissolved uranium over 130 days by converting it into a stable iron-uranium mineral.

When supplied with glycerol under oxygen-limited conditions, the bacteria produced pentavalent and tetravalent uranium, which was incorporated into mineral deposits on their cell walls.

The process transforms highly soluble uranium into a rare mineral that remains locked in place, preventing it from spreading through groundwater.

This discovery could lead to environmentally friendly bioremediation strategies for uranium-contaminated mine sites and aquifers.